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Hazy, Unclear Post-op Lasik Vision

I had Lasik six days ago. Since the surgery, I have not had any periods of sharp, clear vision. I cannot read signs while I am driving, I have to get closer to things to read, and I feel like I am in a fog most of the time. I really did not expect it to be this way. Was I just not informed properly? I am a surgical resident, and I am very concerned because I will be returning back to performing surgeries in a few days. Is there anything that can be done to help me? Is the post-op course longer, and harder for people with higher prescriptions? I am trying to be patient, but I am getting really frustrated.

Asked 39 months ago by podgirl in nj
Sort 4 expert answers by:
+2

Unclear vision six days after LASIK

Your blurring may go away if you are only six days postop. That's extremely early in the grand scheme of things. Predicting your final result is like predicting the results of a football game after the first five minutes of play. A common cause of post-LASIK blurring is residual refractive error (ie, astigmatism, nearsightedness or farsightedness which still remains). Glasses would correct this--if the blur is severe, have your surgeon write you a prescription for a pair of glasses to... more
Gary Kawesch, MD
San Jose Ophthalmologist
+2

Redness and blurry vision are not uncommon at 2 weeks post LASIK.

Vision may be more blurry longer post-operatively in patients with stronger corrections. There is also an increased incidence in under corrections with stronger treatments. These can usually be corrected with an enhancement 3 to 4 months after the initial procedure. If blurriness remains, temporary glasses may be prescribed during the time until enhancement. It is important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.
Cary M. Silverman, MD
West Orange Ophthalmologist
+1

Worried about visual recovery

The analogy I love to use is this: "when you sit up from the Lasik procedure it is like you just got out of the shower and your bathroom window fogged up. As each hour and day go on the fog gets clearer and clearer." So, this is a good expectation post Lasik. There is some variability in the speed of the fog lifting, so predictions are not exact. However, typically, 90% of the fogginess should be resolved in the first 24 hours. There can be a little more fogginess (or... more
Anthony J. Kameen, MD
Baltimore Ophthalmologist
+1

Blurry vision at six days after LASIK not common, but not necessarily abnormal

Most patients regardless of their prescription have fairly clear vision within a few days, but it is not unusual to have slightly blurry vision for several weeks, sometimes for unexplained reasons. The most important question is what is your vision best correctable to and if at least 20/30 then you may just be healing a little slower than average. If it is worse than this I would ask your doctor for an explanation as to specifically what is the problem. On the other hand if it is... more
Jon Dishler, MD
Denver Ophthalmologist
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